Two weeks ago, our devotion was regarding the lies we believe. The way we think and talk to ourselves affects our demeanor and service for the Lord. In Psalms 42 and 43 the Psalmist desires to have close fellowship with the Lord; however, he is feeling discouraged or depressed. He realizes this and rebukes himself and tells himself to hope in God.

Talking to yourself is ok if you are not repeating the devil’s lies. If we are going to talk to ourselves, we need to direct ourselves to God.

Remedy: Psalms 42:11 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.

Speak to yourself: Rebuke yourself.

1.     Since what we believe affects our emotions, it is vitally important that we immerse ourselves in and meditate daily in the Word of God. The Holy Spirit uses the Bible to open our eyes to truth. (Psalm 1; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Hebrews 4:12)

2.     A seed that is not planted will not grow. We must plant ourselves in and faithfully attend the services of a good Bible believing, Bible preaching church. God has given the church evangelists, pastors and teachers ... For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Ephesians 4:12

3.     Remind yourself of who and what you are. I am no longer in Adam. I am in Christ. I am the temple of the Holy Spirit. God is working the fruits of the Spirit in my life.

4.     Exhort yourself to believe. Our old nature and the devil continue to encourage doubt. Our confidence grows as we know God better. 2 Peter 3:18a But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

5.     Seek righteousness. Matthew 5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

6.     Seek and find the Lord Jesus Christ. He is our joy and happiness. He is our peace. He is our life. He is everything. Find happiness and satisfaction in Christ. Colossians 3:4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

Psalms 73:24-28 Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever. For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee. But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all thy works.